A Neilston primary school and its head teacher have been highly praised by the education watchdog after a recent inspection.
A team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited St Thomas’ Primary School in September 2024 when they spoke with parents, carers and children and worked closely with the head teacher and staff.
On a six-point scale where one is unsatisfactory and six is excellent, the High Street facility was rated as five – or ‘very good’ – for its leadership of change and for its ability to ensure wellbeing, equality and inclusion.
It was also rated as four – or ‘good’ – for its learning, teaching and assessment and for its raising attainment and achievement. During the visit, the inspectors noted areas of strength which were outlined in their report.
It noted the new head teacher has brought “stability and cohesion” to St Thomas’ Primary through her effective leadership within a short timeframe.
The report said: “She led the school admirably through the transition to a new shared campus, where staff and children feel settled and motivated in their new environment.”
Another key strength was senior leaders having “very clear approaches to understanding children’s learning and wellbeing needs”.
Inspectors said: “Staff focus on children who need extra support and working as a team, they meet children’s needs very well.”
They added: “Almost all learners across the school demonstrate the school values consistently. Across the school there is a strong, positive and inclusive ethos, where children benefit from respectful and caring relationships with their peers and with staff.”
St Thomas’ Primary School is a denominational primary school serving the community of Neilston.
In March 2024, the school relocated to new, purpose-built premises. It now shares Neilston Learning Campus with Neilston Primary School and Madras Family Centre. The school’s head teacher was praised throughout the inspection.
The report stated: “Since her appointment, the new head teacher has successfully implemented a period of stability, evidence-based school improvement and effective strategic leadership.
“Through her organised, calm and industrious approach, she has quickly created a cohesive, highly motivated and professional team.
“Together, they ensure that children benefit from an organised, welcoming, pleasant and comfortable environment. The commitment and professionalism of the staff reflect well the school values of love, faith and understanding.”
Following the inspection, areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the head teacher and a representative from East Renfrewshire Council.
As outlined in the watchdog’s report, an area for improvement suggested staff should “set all learning experiences at the appropriate pace and level of challenge”. This, inspectors said, should ensure that all children make the best possible progress.
And a second area for improvement was noted as: “senior leaders should extend the range of moderation opportunities for staff to participate in, beyond the school. As staff develop their experience, this should lead to increased breadth and depth in children’s learning.”
Education Scotland stated it was “confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve” and will, therefore, make no more visits in connection with this inspection.
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